Neil C. Gudmestad, University Distinguished Professor of plant pathology, recently garnered international recognition from three organizations for his many contributions to the global potato industry. 

In July, the Potato Association of America gave Gudmestad an Honorary Life Membership, the highest honor the organization can bestow. Gudmestad was cited for a career in which he studied the biology and ecology of numerous potato pathogens and for his development of disease management strategies that have been adopted by the potato industry. Also in July, the World Potato Congress in Beijing, China, presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contributions and dedication to the growth and development of the global potato industry.

Most recently, Gudmestad was named a fellow of the American Phytopathological Society at the group's annual meeting in Pasadena, California. The designation is given only to individuals who have made contributions to the profession of plant pathology. Gudmestad was specifically recognized for his research program on pathogen diagnostics, fungicide resistance, development of disease management systems and metagenomic research.

The year of distinction and recognition of Gudmestad’s research program began in January when NDSU President Dean L. Bresciani named him the inaugural Neil C. Gudmestad Endowed Chair of Potato Pathology. It is the first fully endowed chair position at the university.

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